Downtown KCMO backs $600M Royals bid
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Downtown after the Royals won the World Series in 2015. Photo: Jamie Squire/Getty Images
Major downtown Kansas City institutions are backing a new city incentive proposal for a Royals stadium at Washington Square Park, despite opposition from a workers union.
Why it matters: Hallmark, Union Station and the KC Sports Commission are throwing their weight behind downtown baseball, which they say could lead to more jobs, development and benefits for the entire city.
- The proposal, unveiled Thursday by Mayor Quinton Lucas and co-sponsored by nine city councilmembers, signals that the city is intent on striking a deal after voters rejected a sales tax to fund the construction of the Royals' stadium plan in 2024.
What's inside: The proposal would give the Royals $600 million toward an anticipated $1.9 billion stadium, using bonds to borrow money upfront that the city would repay over time.
- It also directs the city manager to pursue other funding, including state incentives passed last year that could cover up to 50% of the construction costs.
- The drafted language, which was sent to Axios by the city, suggests a deal that includes additional development near the stadium, community benefits and public engagement.
Zoom in: Union Station spokesperson Michael Tritt called the potential stadium a "generational opportunity rooted in both history and hope," pointing to previous stadiums in the urban core. "It's time to welcome downtown baseball home once again."
- Kathy Nelson, president and CEO of Visit KC and the Kansas City Sports Commission, said the move would bring "economic opportunities that will positively impact our community for years to come. Bring the crown downtown."
- Hallmark said in a statement that it supports the city's efforts: "We believe it's important for Kansas City to be the home of the Royals."
Friction point: Missouri Workers Center, which represents a coalition of low-wage and industry workers, said the ordinance doesn't address their needs — such as commitments from the Royals on housing and minimum wage floors.
- The union is urging city councilmembers to vote no.
The other side: Mayor Lucas, at a Downtown Council event Friday, said the stadium would add thousands of jobs, both through construction and future games, and would also benefit nearby businesses.
- He said the deal would ensure "the stadium benefits workers from across our city, but also kids and families that need new playgrounds, ball fields, pools and recreation."
- The Downtown Council, representing property owners and businesses, has long supported a downtown stadium.
What we're watching: The ordinance goes to the Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, with a full council vote possible as soon as Thursday.
- However, the Royals haven't formally committed, and a tax increment financing (TIF) plan and rezoning still need approval.